An Australian school community has been left outraged after a well-loved crossing guard was banned from a senior student after a parent complained about the innocent gesture.
Pupils at Mount Dandenong Primary School in Greater Melbourne will no longer get high-fives from their beloved crossing supervisor John Goulden during drop-off and pick-up after he was reprimanded by the Yarra Grades Council.
Goulden, who was recently crowned one of Victoria’s top crossing supervisors, has been warned by the council against “initiating unnecessary physical contact” with children.
Outraged parents have rallied behind the beloved lollipop man, with one starting a petition to lift the ban.
Parent and petition organizer Rohan Bradley said Goulden has an “infectious joy that leaves a lasting impression on students and parents”.
“His high-fives have become a tradition that many children look forward to, a small gesture that symbolizes the warmth and friendliness of our unique community,” he said.
“Unfortunately, this tradition is under threat. With the happiness and well-being of our children hanging in the balance, we must take action.”
Bradley said it wasn’t just about a simple five, but about “preserving the unique spirit of our community.”
“We plead with those in charge to let John continue with his five students, maintaining an act that sparks joy and promotes a more positive learning environment,” he said.
The petition has already gained more than 500 signatures as parents and students stand with the “community morale booster”.
In a statement, Yarra Ranges Council confirmed they had received a complaint from a parent at the school about the crossing supervisor high-fiving students as they walked past him on Farndos Rd.
“Council internal policies and Victorian Standards clearly state that unacceptable behavior includes: Displaying behavior with children and young people that could be interpreted as physically inappropriate,” they told 9News.
“Council has reminded the contractor who is currently supervising children at Mount Dandenong Primary School of the role expectations in relation to interactions with children.”
In July, the council named Goulden the Region’s Crossing Supervisor of the Year for his “outstanding contributions to community safety.”
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